Interrupted Aortic Arch -- Child

Definition

An interrupted aortic arch is a rare heart defect. The aortic arch is part of the major blood vessel that helps move blood from the heart to the rest of the body. With this defect, the aortic arch is interrupted or incomplete. Blood cannot flow through it normally. This makes blood flow to the body less efficient. Children with this defect may also have a hole in the wall between the right and left chambers in the heart.

Diagnosis

Your child's heart activity may be measured. This can be done with
electrocardiogram (EKG).

Treatment

Talk with the doctor about the best treatment plan for your child. Treatment options include:

Medications

Certain medications will usually
be given to keep some blood flowing through another blood vessel called the ductus arteriosus. This allows some blood to get around the interruption in the aorta. This is a temporary treatment.

Medications may also:

Help the heart beat stronger

Get rid of extra fluid in the body

Surgery

Surgery is needed to correct the defect. Surgery aims to form a connection between the two parts of the aortic arch. The hole in the heart between the ventricles is also closed. The ductus arteriosus is then closed.

Lifelong Monitoring

Your child will need to see a heart specialist regularly.

Prevention

There are no current guidelines to prevent interrupted aortic arch because the cause is unknown. Getting appropriate prenatal care is always important.

Revision Information

This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.